The American Samoa Society of Washington, D.C. Governing Board is seeking a young lady to represent American Samoa at the 2013 National Cherry Blossom Festival in April next year. The National Cherry Blossom Festival is coordinated by the National Conference of State Societies (NCSS) of which American Samoa Society of Washington is a member.

According to newly-elected American Samoa Society President Isapela "Pela" Enesi-Coggins, prospective candidates must submit a typed essay of no more than 500 words explaining "Why I desire to represent the American Samoa Society of Washington, D.C. as the Territory's Cherry Blossom Princess." Interested candidates may submit their essays to the American Samoa Society Governing Board no later than December 1, 2012 by email to: americansamoasociety@gmail.comor by postal mail to The American Samoa Society of Washington, D.C., P.O. Box 66484, Washington, D.C. 20035.

To be considered in the selection process, each candidate must be a U.S. citizen or U.S national — either has been born in American Samoa, be the daughter of a parent born in American Samoa, or be a legal resident of the Territory. Candidates must be at least 19 years of age and no older than 24 years old as of April 14, 2013, the closing day of the NCSS activities for the 2013 Festival. Candidates must also be at least a high school graduate, and must be single, never married, and have no children.

The Princess will be chosen by the American Samoa Society based on their background, academics, leadership, community service, and future ambitions. Each candidate should possess poise, intelligence, maturity, have a good personality and character, and enjoy good physical, mental, and emotional stability in order to withstand the rigorous schedule of Festival activities. The 2013 Princess will serve a term of one calendar year and is required to be present and participate fully in the 2013 National Cherry Blossom Festival events, including all NCSS events, during the period of April 7- 14, 2013.

"I would like to thank the American Samoa State Society and National Conference of State Societies for providing this unique opportunity for our community to participate. As part of the Cherry Blossom Princess Education and Cultural Exchange Program, a young lady from our Samoan community will have the privilege to partake in this exceptional weeklong program with young women from across the U.S. and around the world," Congressman Faleomavaega stated.

"Since 1948, more than 3,000 young women have participated in this program where they have had the opportunity to meet with many notable leaders as well as female role models who serve in our nation's Capital. These young ladies will gain an increased understanding of government and be exposed to a broader international environment with several events featuring the Japanese Ambassador among other world leaders. I encourage all qualified candidates to consider applying for this once-in-a-lifetime experience," Faleomavaega added.

"Finally, I want to congratulate the recently elected leadership of American Samoa Society of Washington, DC, President Isapela Enesi-Coggins, 1st and 2nd Vice Presidents Christina Maiava-Schaff and Falaniko Vitolio, Secretary Julin Williams, Treasurer Johnny Toma and Historian John Brown. I also want to acknowledge and thank some of the past leaders and founding members of the American Samoa Society including John and Iiga Apaula Brown, Paul and Marion Coleman Hetmanek, Fred and Ipu Eseta Suiaunoa Gray, and Joseph and Claire Hunkin Kennedy. I look forward to the Society's selection of the next American Samoa Cherry Blossom Princess," Faleomavaega concluded.